Abstract: The instant invention is a method for making and using an apparatus for detecting neutrons. Scintillating optical fibers are fabricated by melting SiO.sub.2 with a thermal neutron capturing substance and a scintillating material in a reducing atmosphere. The melt is then drawn into fibers in an anoxic atmosphere. The fibers may then be coated and used directly in a neutron detection apparatus, or assembled into a geometrical array in a second, hydrogen-rich, scintillating material such as a polymer. Photons generated by interaction with thermal neutrons are trapped within the coated fibers and are directed to photoelectric converters. A measurable electronic signal is generated for each thermal neutron interaction within the fiber. These electronic signals are then manipulated, stored, and interpreted by normal methods to infer the quality and quantity of incident radiation.

Abstract: A method for homogenizing plutonia particles in mixed oxide nuclear reactor fuels. The method includes the step of blending urania particles and plutonia particles together and pressing the mixture into a pellet. The pellet is thereafter sintered in a reducing atmosphere with hydrogen present so that pores are formed in the pellet. The plutonia particles are thereby transformed into spherical shells of dense PuO.sub.2-x that surround each pore and which homogenizes the fuel.